Apple iPad Pro 12.9" (2022, M2) vs Microsoft Surface Pro 8
The Verdict
Apple's M2 iPad Pro delivers superior performance and display technology with its Liquid Retina XDR mini-LED screen, delivering exceptional color accuracy and contrast that outshines the Surface Pro 8's standard IPS panel. Processing power favors the iPad Pro's M2 chip, handling creative workflows and gaming with ease. However, Microsoft's Surface Pro 8 offers genuine laptop functionality through Windows 11, making it more versatile for productivity tasks requiring traditional software compatibility. Battery life extends further on the Surface (16 hours vs 10 hours), and its built-in kickstand proves more practical than the iPad's separate accessories. At identical pricing, the choice depends on use case: choose the iPad Pro for creative professionals and media consumption, or select the Surface Pro 8 if you need a true Windows computer replacement with broader software access.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple iPad Pro 12.9" (2022, M2) if…
- →Mini-LED display with 2596 dimming zones delivers stunning HDR contrast
- →M2 chip handles desktop-class apps and heavy creative workflows
- →Thunderbolt port enables pro external displays and fast storage
Buy the Microsoft Surface Pro 8 if…
- →120Hz display was a major upgrade over Surface Pro 7's 60Hz
- →Thunderbolt 4 ports enable docking and eGPU connectivity
- →Removable SSD for IT-friendly storage swaps
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple iPad Pro 12.9" (2022, M2)
Pros
- Mini-LED display with 2596 dimming zones delivers stunning HDR contrast
- M2 chip handles desktop-class apps and heavy creative workflows
- Thunderbolt port enables pro external displays and fast storage
- 120Hz ProMotion for ultra-smooth scrolling and Apple Pencil tracking
- LiDAR scanner for AR and precision photography
Cons
- Extremely expensive starting at $1,099 before accessories
- iPadOS still limits true desktop multitasking despite Stage Manager
- Heavy at 682 g — noticeable during extended handheld use
- Base model only 128 GB with no expandable storage
Microsoft Surface Pro 8
Pros
- 120Hz display was a major upgrade over Surface Pro 7's 60Hz
- Thunderbolt 4 ports enable docking and eGPU connectivity
- Removable SSD for IT-friendly storage swaps
- Slim bezels modernized the Surface Pro design language
- 16-hour battery life is excellent for a Windows tablet
Cons
- 11th gen Intel CPUs feel outdated against 12th/13th gen competitors
- Accessories not included — keyboard and pen cost extra
- No headphone jack removed a basic convenience
- Starts at $1,099 for an i5/8 GB configuration
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple iPad Pro 12.9" (2022, M2) | Microsoft Surface Pro 8 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | iPadOS 16 (upgradable to iPadOS 17+) | Windows 11 Home / Pro |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 682 g (Wi-Fi) | 891 g |
| Dimensions | 280.6 x 214.9 x 6.4 mm | 287 x 208 x 9.3 mm |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 10 hours web browsing on Wi-Fi | Up to 16 hours (typical usage) |
| Capacity | 10758 mAh (40.88 Wh) | 51.5 Wh |
| Display | ||
| Size | 12.9 inches | 13 inches |
| Type | Liquid Retina XDR mini-LED | PixelSense Flow IPS |
| Resolution | 2732 x 2048 | 2880 x 1920 |
| Refresh rate | 120Hz ProMotion | 120Hz |
| Storage | ||
| Storage options | 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB, 2 TB | 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB |
| Expandable storage | ||
| Processor | ||
| RAM | 8 GB (16 GB on 1 TB/2 TB) | 8 GB / 16 GB / 32 GB |
| Chipset | Apple M2 (8-core CPU, 10-core GPU) | Intel Core i5-1135G7 / i7-1185G7 (11th Gen, Quad-core) |
| Connectivity | ||
| USB | Thunderbolt / USB 4 | 2x Thunderbolt 4 USB-C |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Cellular | ||
| Stylus Support | ||
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This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
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